Rising Generation of French Polynesians Celebrate Jesus Christ

What happens when you bring together 71 creative artists, 50 dancers, 25 musicians and singers, 34 models showcasing wholesome, traditional fashion and four presenters from five different faiths all between the ages of 10-30?

You get one of the most awe-inspiring youth festivals in the South Pacific.

More than 1,000 young people attended “Rising Generation: An Art and Music Youth Festival” in Tahiti, French Polynesia on Saturday, the 17^th of August.

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The event was organized by young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

According to Church communication director, Noelline Parker, “The youth were committed to deliver a festival for, with and by the youth. The atmosphere was so entertaining, enchanting, and electric.”

The goal for the youth festival, which was held on a well-known public site, was to combine four events in one.

First, to organize an Art Festival around the themes: Divine Nature, Light of Christ, Light and Faith.

Second, give young people a chance to watch a recording of the 2024 “Festival: A Youth Concert” on a giant screen.

Third, hold a local music festival with all the Church’s 2024 youth album songs performed in Tahitian by local singers and dancers.

Fourth, a fashion show to showcase many of the beautiful clothes worn in French Polynesia throughout the years.

Yet, what began as a local youth festival organized by the Church of Jesus Christ, turned into so much more. Organisers realized early on that youth of all faiths needed to be made welcome.

Catholic, Protestant, Seventh-day Adventist and Community of Christ youth joined young members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the festival.

Volunteers, young and old, prepared every detail, and the weather was perfect.

Parker described the event as “a spiritual feast and a musical tsunami.”

Special guests included Chantal Galenon, Vice-President of French Polynesia; Marie Rose Teuru, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Punaauia; Ramona Piritua, Member of Punaauia Town Council; and Emma Vanaa, President of the Syndicat Mixte, the union of the nine biggest municipalities including the capital city of Papeete.

Ms Emma Vanaa said, “It was incredible to listen to these young people singing in Tahitian and the great music and lyrics which are so youthful. You have changed the image of our Latter-day Saint youth because they are known only through choirs. This time it was totally different, very touching and refreshing.”

As one attendee, who was a member of a different faith, said, “I thought it was a festival for members of the Church of Jesus Christ only…and when I arrived, I saw many others who are Catholic, Protestant, Community of Christ, and Adventist. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of friendship, conviviality, as it was one family together.”

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One of the professional contractors in charge of light and sound said, “I did not know that people would come together to attend a religious concert. I was surprised and frankly enjoyed being here and listening to the singing and sharing their faith through their talents. It was a good event.”

Elder Frederic Riemer, Area Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said, “How beautiful are our young people! They were awesome in demonstrating their artistic talents through song, dance, and artwork. I strongly felt tonight that thanks to music and the talents they shared, there is hope! They testified through music that if we put the Saviour in our lives, we can overcome all the trials we may encounter on this earth.”

Parker added, “There are so many things to say in terms of impact. I can frankly say that we have launched a new trend here in Tahiti, the Youth Gospel Music Festival. A platform for Christian youth to testify of their Saviour, of their need of a Saviour, of their problems and how Christ can deliver, save, alleviate, and strengthen them in all aspects of their lives and imperfections.”

Marie-Jeanne Marcillac, project manager of the 2024 festival, said that the youth are already excited and planning for next year’s music festival. Likewise, she said, “other denominations are thrilled to move forward together with one goal in common: to bring the young people of French Polynesia closer to their Saviour.”